Adekunle Sonola

Adekunle is a seasoned professional in the African financial services sector with over 35 years of experience. He has held several positions of increasing responsibility and in the process enabled the profitable enhancement of customer propositions across market segments, with a special emphasis on digital banking services and solutions.

Adekunle's success in leading the transformation of Guaranty Trust Bank's East African operations as Regional Managing Director in East Africa was particularly noteworthy. During this time, he oversaw the acquisition, rebranding, and roll-out of a successful banking operation with a presence in Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.

In addition to his extensive experience in the financial services sector, Adekunle has prior to becoming the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Polaris Bank served as Executive Director of Commercial Banking at Union Bank Plc, and Director of Investment Banking at Standard Bank of South Africa. In his role at Standard Bank, he was responsible for managing high-value investment banking mandates across West Africa and successfully led the entry of several South African brands into the West African market.

Adekunle's expertise and experience have also been recognized through his membership on the boards of several prominent Nigerian organizations, including First Bank of Nigeria Plc, Airtel Nigeria, and GIG Logistics Limited. He has also served on the board of the Agriculture Credit Guarantee Scheme Fund.

Adekunle holds two bachelor's degrees and an MBA from Durham University Business School. He has also attended several executive management programs in Europe, Singapore, and America.

Adekunle has a proven track record of success in driving profitable growth, leading successful transformation initiatives, and managing high-value investment banking mandates. He also has an enviable capability in managing Environmental and Social Governance (ESG) risks and opportunities in a way that creates long-term value for stakeholders.